Chapter 198 9th Stage Spirit Severing Realm.

The courtyard, now a theater for the clash of ideologies, buzzed with anticipation. Students, torn between loyalty and curiosity, formed a circle as the duel unfolded.

The air crackled with energy as Samantha unleashed her techniques, a display of raw power meant to overshadow Elysia's unconventional methods. Elysia, in response, manipulated the chaotic energies around her, the blood-red scales on her skin shimmering with an ethereal glow.

As the duel reached its climax, the courtyard held its collective breath. Samantha, fueled by wounded pride, launched a powerful attack, seeking to prove that traditional cultivation methods were superior. Elysia, however, countered with a finesse that defied the expectations of the onlookers.

Olivia, observing with keen interest, whispered to her friend.

Olivia, thoughtful: "Elysia is proving that innovation can coexist with tradition. It's not about choosing one over the other; it's about finding harmony."

In the end, Elysia's unorthodox techniques prevailed, not as a proclamation of dominance but as a testament to the diversity inherent in cultivation. Samantha, though initially resistant, couldn't deny the effectiveness of Elysia's approach.

Samantha, begrudgingly: "Fine, you may have won this duel, but it doesn't change my belief in the purity of true cultivation."

Elysia, ever diplomatic or at least how she looked to everyone else responded with a nod.

Elysia, diplomatic: "Collecting Exp is a journey of continuous learning. Each path is valid, and diversity only strengthens our collective knowledge."

The courtyard, once fraught with tension, began to settle. The clash of egos, though momentarily resolved, left lingering traces of change in the air. Elysia, with her skeletal legion in tow, continued her journey within the Gates, leaving behind a tapestry of emotions and introspection.

As the students dispersed, the whispers of jealousy gradually transformed into murmurs of reflection. The clash of ideologies had exposed the complexities inherent in the cultivation world, prompting individuals to reconsider their perspectives and prejudices.

In the span of two months, Elysia's relentless journey through the Gates became a captivating saga that unfolded within the walls of Warhaven University. Each cleared Gate added a new chapter to her growing legend, and the rumors of her exploits spread like wildfire among both students and teachers.

Teacher Anderson, marveling at Elysia's achievements, shared his thoughts with a colleague.

Teacher Anderson, surprised: "Have you seen Elysia's progress? She's making this look easy. Clearing Gates left and right."

Teacher Bennett, equally impressed, nodded in agreement.

Teacher Bennett, impressed: "Elysia's efficiency is unmatched. I've never seen a student move through the Gates so quickly. It's as if she's dancing through challenges."

As Elysia's reputation soared, the student body buzzed with a mix of amazement and skepticism.

Haley, an ambitious student with a keen eye for cultivation, couldn't hide her admiration.

Haley, amazed: "I heard she cleared the 4th Year Nightmare Gate again. Solo! Can you believe it? She's on a whole different level."

Chris, always skeptical of extraordinary claims, raised an eyebrow.

Chris, skeptical: "It's got to be some kind of trick. No one can clear Gates that fast. Maybe she's getting special treatment or using forbidden techniques."

Elysia's presence in the Gates wasn't the only thing capturing attention. The emergence of her Skeletal Army added an intriguing layer to the narrative. Students marveled at the sight of her leading a legion of undead warriors through the mystical realms.

Julia, captivated by the spectacle, couldn't contain her excitement.

Julia, awestruck: "Did you see all those skeletons? It's like she has her own personal army. It's both eerie and amazing."

Kevin, always eager to delve into the technicalities, wondered aloud.

Kevin, intrigued: "I wonder how she controls them. It's got to be some kind of special technique. Necromancy, perhaps?"

On the other hand, Alex, nursing a tinge of envy, couldn't help but voice his desires.

Alex, envious: "I wish I had an army like that. Clearing Gates would be a breeze. But where does she even get those skeletons from?"

Elysia's journey, a tapestry woven with threads of admiration, skepticism, and envy, continued to unfold. In the library, a group of students gathered to discuss the rumors and speculate on the nature of her unprecedented feats.

Sophie, always open-minded, shared her thoughts.

Sophie, thoughtful: "Elysia is rewriting the rules of Warriors and Mages. Maybe her Skeletal Army is a manifestation of some extremely rare Talent."

Daniel, known for his cautious approach, added a note of skepticism.

Daniel, cautious: "I don't know. It could be a gimmick to distract from her actual abilities. Skeletal Army or not, clearing Gates at that pace is unheard of."

As the whispers of Elysia's exploits echoed through the university, the faculty couldn't help but take notice. Professor Ramirez, a seasoned cultivator, discussed the matter with Professor Martinez.

Professor Ramirez, contemplative: "Elysia's progress is unprecedented. We might be witnessing the emergence of a prodigy."

Professor Martinez, pragmatic as always, raised a concern.

Professor Martinez, pragmatic: "But what about the Skeletal Army? It's not a common cultivation technique. We need to ensure it doesn't lead to any complications."

Amid the discussions and debates, Elysia remained focused on her journey. The courtyard, once a place of shared aspirations, now served as a stage where the drama of her cultivation unfolded.

Rebecca, a close friend of Elysia, approached her with a mix of curiosity and concern.

Rebecca, curious: "Elysia, what's the secret behind your Skeletal Army? It's the talk of the university."

Elysia, with a hint of mystery, replied.

Elysia, cryptic: "It's a path I've discovered. The Skeletal Army is a manifestation of my connection to ancient energies. It's both a shield and a weapon."

Rebecca, supportive yet cautious, offered her perspective.

Rebecca, supportive: "Just be careful, Elysia. The attention you're getting could attract unwanted challenges. Not everyone will appreciate your unconventional methods."

Elysia, with a knowing smile, nodded in acknowledgment.

Elysia, determined: "I understand the risks. But sometimes, one must forge their path, even if it leads through uncharted territories."

As Elysia's journey unfolded, the tapestry of conversations and speculations continued to weave itself into the fabric of Warhaven University. The Skeletal Army, once a source of awe and envy, became a symbol of innovation that challenged the traditional norms of cultivation.

In the quiet corridors and bustling courtyards, students and teachers alike couldn't help but wonder about the untold possibilities that Elysia's journey might uncover.

The Gates, once mystical thresholds to be approached with caution, now bore witness to a cultivator who danced on the edges of convention and redefined the very essence of what it meant to strive for greatness.

Elysia's cultivation journey during these two months was nothing short of extraordinary. Balancing Gate-clearing with dedicated cultivation sessions, she pushed her limits to reach the 9th Stage Spirit Severing Realm at a pace that astonished even the most seasoned cultivators.

Elysia's daily routine was a testament to her unwavering dedication. As dawn painted the sky with hues of orange and pink, she could be found in the secluded corners of the university's cultivation grounds, where the spiritual energies were most attuned to her practice. The morning air resonated with the subtle hum of her cultivation technique, the Eternal Heart Sutra, as she delved into the profound principles that governed the Spirit Severing Realm.

Each movement, each breath, was a calculated step in her relentless pursuit of strength. The meticulous nature of her practice hinted at the depth of her understanding, revealing a cultivator who not only sought power but also grasped the intricacies of the spiritual essence that coursed through her veins.

Elysia, with a resolute gaze fixed upon the distant horizon, spoke to herself.

Elysia, determined: "I can't afford to waste any time. Every moment counts."

Her cultivation technique, a sacred art passed down through generations, resonated with the energies of the universe. The Eternal Heart Sutra was more than a mere sequence of movements—it was a profound connection to the spiritual essence that permeated all existence. Elysia's commitment to mastering its intricacies set her apart as a cultivator of extraordinary potential.

As she entered a state of deep meditation, the spiritual energies responded to her call. The air around her seemed to shimmer with an ethereal glow, a visual manifestation of the harmony she achieved with the cosmic forces.

The Peak Spirit Severing Realm, a milestone that many spent decades striving for, became a palpable presence within her grasp.

However, the rapid ascent to such heights in the cultivation hierarchy came with its own set of challenges. The foundation upon which her cultivation rested, although strong, needed meticulous attention to weather the storm of higher realms.

Elysia, in contemplation, acknowledged the need for balance.

Elysia, contemplating: "I need to refine my foundation. I can't afford any weaknesses, especially at this crucial stage."

The dichotomy of pushing her limits while maintaining a stable foundation became the focal point of Elysia's daily cultivation routine. The courtyard, typically filled with students going about their activities, bore witness to her solitary endeavors.

The balance Elysia sought was a delicate dance between ambition and caution. Every surge of power, every step closer to the Peak Spirit Severing Realm, required an equal measure of meticulous care to ensure that the foundation of her cultivation remained unshaken.